What Can I Do With My Voice?

What can I do with my voice, Windy? It is really raspy. My wife says speak softly, but can I be like a raspy woman or should I try and be higher pitched? Let me know, JodiArtemis

Dear Jody: Having a raspy voice certainly won't help you to pass as a woman, but it can be overcome in several ways. First, always make sure you make eye contact before you speak to someone - your image will reinforce the fact that you are female. I almost never get "read" in person, but I occasionally get taken for a guy over the telephone. Always smile when you speak, and keep it short and sweet (see my tips on "Stage Fright"). Remember that there are many, many women with raspy voices, not to mention Harvey Fierstein, so don't try for a higher pitch if it makes you sound unnatural. Speak softly, and be grateful for that wonderful wife of yours! Windy